‘We haven’t slept a wink’: families welcome freed Thai hostages home

Tears and joy as 17 Thai nationals who were seized in Hamas attacks on Israel land in Bangkok

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Pornsawan Pinakalo's three great aunts would not have missed his return for the world. Kularb Pinakalo's knees couldn't quite get her up to the room in Bangkok airport where her nephew was meeting other family members for the first time since being taken hostage in Gaza. But after travelling for four hours by van to the Thai capital, the 63-year-old was ready and waiting for him to emerge in the arrivals hall, alongside 84-year-old Nangnoi Pattataysan and Noi Prakobkan, 82.

I just want to give him a hug," Kularb said. She was so overwhelmed that she could hardly think of what to say to him, she added.